It is that time of year when everyone starts to get serious about their outdoor time. Gardens are going in, school sports are wrapping up, summer leagues are going strong, pools are getting ready to open, and everyone is planning their summer vacation or camp time. With all these things going on, being safe in the sun may get away from you. Here are a few tips to make sure everyone has an amazing, and safe, summer.
- Wear SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 – 50 waterproof sunscreens that you reapply every hour and a half to 2 hours. Look for mineral formulas that include the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for better coverage that is also good for the environment. Don’t forget to check the expiration date on bottles. Coverage will be much better. For optimum protection, generously apply sunscreen 15 – 30 minutes before you head outside. An adult should use approximately 1 ounce of sunscreen (a shot glass full), on the first application, so your family should go through a bottle every day or 2 if you are doing a beach vacation.
- Wear a hat with a brim all the way around, preferably a 3-brim. This beach or bucket style hat will protect your face, ears, and neck from sun exposure.
- Consider getting UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing for swimming, tennis, golf, fishing, and even hunting. Again, look for 30+ for better coverage.
- Seek shade under umbrellas, canopies, pop-up shelters for little ones, and playgrounds with sun sails, or just lots of shade from trees.
- Stay hydrated by drinking about 8-ounces of water for every 30 minutes of outdoor work, exercise, yard work, or even beach time on warm days. Do not drink more than 1 liter per hour (about 4 cups). As excessive water can cause hyponatremia or water intoxication, which can have serious consequences.
Wear neon swimsuits, shirts, rash guards, and life vests for much better visibility in the water. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 – 4 in the United States, so swim lessons, adult supervision, following posted guidelines, and water barriers are very important. Check out the images from ALIVE Solutions study of swim wear colors in open water and pools, it s very scary that many colors disappear under water.
Following these tips will keep your family, friends, and co-workers safe and allow everyone to have “Fun in the Sun”.
Written By: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County.
Reviewed By: Alisha Barton, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Miami County and Ken Stewart, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Monroe County.